(1837-42) $2 1/2 C.Bechtler Quarter Eagle, 70G. 20C. AU58
NGC. K-13, R.6. Plain Edge. This particular issue was struck
using South Carolina gold. Interestingly, the engraver used an
inverted V for the letter A on the reverse die. The Bechtlers'
coinage earned great respect during this period as the coins were
of the true weight and fineness stated, and the gold value was
actually worth slightly more than face value. The Bechtlers also
coined the first gold dollars in the United States, and the
Philadelphia Mint followed with their own gold dollars some 18
years later. Remarkably, the Bechtler coining press still survives
in the American Numismatic Society's Museum. NGC has graded two
examples this high with three coins seen finer (the finest MS62).
The coin is sharply and evenly struck throughout, and the
green-gold surfaces are lightly abraded with the only notable
distractions being a series of shallow pinscratches below 250 on
the reverse.Purchased from Abner Kreisberg Corporation on June 21, 1983 for
$4,000.From The Beverly Hills Collection.(#10070) (PCGS# 10070)

I would also like to thank your auction company for the promotion of the auction and was pleasantly surprised by the number of bidders who attended, as well as the prices realized. It was a pleasure doing business with you. [ Entire Letter » ]